2016 Mitsubishi Triton review | New range has rugged decorum

EXCUSE me. Allow one to introduce the tradie with manners. Mitsubishi has launched its 2016 model Triton and it's raising the etiquette bar.

Designed to be more "car-like", it's a far improved ute than the model it replaces.

Rugged and hard-working, the Triton has been a success story. Low pricing has helped propel Mitsubishi to become the nation's second biggest light commercial/SUV seller in Australia.

Prices start from $24,490 plus on-roads for the single cab, while the popular double cab begins at $35,990.

The latter may sound expensive with the current model in run-out start from $29,990 drive-away, but Mitsubishi says it has dropped the prices across nearly all variants.

The old model will sell alongside its new brethren for a few months yet.

For now the Triton is only available with a turbo diesel. A 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine will be available later this year in base model guise only.

The Mitsubishi Triton.

Comfort

For the first time in a Triton there is telescopic steering wheel adjustment, while the seating has been vastly improved. Seat foam density increases and there is additional bolstering laterally and around the thighs…together these introductions make the cabin an improved location for taller passengers.

Interior treatments are more practical than pretty. Base variants are typically basic, which is fair enough given the market, while upper spec derivatives have various shades of grey combined with piano black and silver finishes.

Hefty strides forward have been made with cabin acoustics and the Triton is a far quieter ride. Passengers don't need to shout at highway speeds where there is only minor wind noise from the large side mirrors.

The diesel generates typical clatter when cold and during hard work on inclines, although it doesn't dominate aurally.

The Mitsubishi Triton Exceed cabin.

On the road

Improved behaviour is the hallmark of the new Triton.

With more power underfoot and better steering, it lends itself to work or family duties. The new oil-burner generates slightly more power, just 2kW, but the hefty gains come in pulling power. Peak torque is up 30 Newton metres in manuals and 80Nm in automatics to 430Nm.

Boosting the torque, as well as a new turbocharger which spools quicker, has delivered more instantaneous throttle response at low speed with greater acceleration prowess.

Changes to the steering ratio mean lock-to-lock takes 3.8 turns of the steering wheel, whereas the old variant took 11% more effort.

Mid-spec variants get the "super" four-wheel drive system, which simply means changing from two-wheel drive to four-high and four-low can be done via a console dial rather than a shifter. We tested the Triton in sand on Fraser Island where it was unfazed throughout the boggy inland tracks and never looked like getting stuck.

Soft sand saw the traction control step in on several occasions which proved frustrating, but it remained adept even without lowering tyre pressure. On the highway it proved composed, cruising at 100kmh around 2000rpm.

Boasting outstanding fuel economy, the official figure is just above seven litres for every 100km. Our bitumen test route saw it climb into the nines but we'll do more analysis over a longer journey in future.

Capped price servicing is available for the first four maintenance intervals, and there is a solid warranty backed by a large, well established dealership network.

The Mitsubishi Triton GLX.

Practicality

Hard plastics are used throughout the console and dash, and there is a pair of cup holders in the console and fold down arm rest in the back, along with a deep centre console and a handy spot for phones and audio players just below the USB port.

Back seats of dual cabs haven't typically been inviting in the past, but the Triton pew is contoured with a 25-degree recline.

Legroom is good enough for two adults, three at a push, while there are excellent roof-mounted handles above the front doors to aid entry and exit. Interior length has improved, as has shoulder space.

The Mitsubishi Triton GLX cabin.

Funky factor

Looks are still distinctly Triton. Double cab models have maintained the "J-line" between tub and tray, yet about 80% of the body has been redesigned.

Changes have made it more aerodynamic, its drag coefficient is 0.42, which is among the best for a truck.

Triton GLX is available in white or metallic silver. All other models are also available in red, black pearl and metallic hues of grey, blue and green - metallic and pearl finishes cost an additional $550.

The lowdown

Carving a size niche within the market, the Triton builds on its well-liked attributes.

It's easy to drive, capable off-road and now offers a quieter ride.

Some will scoff at the towing capacity of 3.1 tonnes, but Mitsubishi was quick to point out its gross combination mass advantage. Its lighter kerb weight, combined with its payload and towing ability ensures it's one useful truck for work and play.